LOVER’S ROCK

In this edition of the World of Reggae Music Collection the selector explores the sweet side of reggae music. Since the early origins of reggae music, love songs have formed an important part of the musical landscape. The sultry voices of Beres Hammond, Ken Boothe, and Dennis Brown alongside the falsetto voices of Courtney John and Bitty McLean bring real soul power to lover’s rock. And the reggae legends Gregory Isaacs, John Holt, Sugar Minott, and Freddie McGregor shined in this style.

Many legends of reggae, including Bob Marley & the Wailers and Jimmy Cliff have made some beautiful lover’s rock tunes, while some artists like Maxi Priest, Peter Hunningale, and Tarrus Riley have relied on the genre producing a plethora of lover’s selections. And there are some classic cuts here, including Tyrone Taylor’s “Cottage in Negril” and Terry Linen’s “No Time To Linger.”

Some artists surprise their audiences with softer sides, for example, roots reggae artist Alborosie and dancehall singjay Busy Signal have recorded sweet songs for the ladies. And there are many women, including Etana, Marcia Griffiths and Hortense Ellis, who have recorded lush reggae songs filled with love. From Alton Ellis to Sean Paul, love music has been an integral part of reggae.